What Is a Neti Pot, How Does It Work, and Why Would You Want To Use One?

You may have seen a video of someone using a neti pot before. A few years ago there was a popular video on the internet of a woman using one, and because it was something that most people had never heard of before, much less actually seen, the video made its rounds across the internet.

Recently, Dr. Oz talked about neti pots on his show and even demonstrated how to use one. Suddenly, interest grew and people wanted to learn more about them. So let’s begin!

What Is A Neti Pot?

A neti pot is a device used for nasal irrigation. The practice is traditionally called “jala neti,” and its name comes from two Sanskrit words:

Jala = water
Neti = nasal cleansing

The pot itself is about the size of a large teacup that has a spout on one side. The pot is filled with a saline solution, and the spout is inserted into one nostril and tipped up so that water flows out of the spout, up the nostril, and out the other nostril.

Jala neti comes from yogic practices where it has been used for generations to help keep the nasal passages clean and healthy.

How Does It Work?

The practice of nasal irrigation helps to clear the nasal and sinus passages. As the solution flows up one nostril and out the other, it helps flush out debris, bacteria, and allergens, and can help draw mucus out. A properly made neti pot solution with the correct proportions of salt and water will not burn, sting, or cause irritation.

Why Would You Want To Use One?

Use of a neti pot provides a a number of health benefits.

They can help with allergies, especially in the summer when pollen levels are high. As the saline solution passes through the nostrils and sinuses, and can help remove whatever allergens are causing the reaction.

Some people who have colds report that performing nasal irrigation helps them breathe easier and helps break up and remove nasal mucus. It should be noted, however, that it is not recommended to use a neti pot if one of your nostrils is completely blocked. But if it is just partially blocked then it is safe to use. Begin with the spout in the nostril that is not blocked (so the water can help get the blocking mucus out, rather than pushing it further up into the nose).

People who suffer from sinusitis have also reported that nasal irrigation can help relieve their symptoms.

Some research suggests that nasal irrigation is best done on a short term basis, such as during a time of bad allergies, or a cold, rather than on a regular basis.

With proper knowledge and use, a neti pot can provide many health benefits that your nose will thank you for.

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